My Top Ten Numismatic Goals for 2025

Looking back on my years in the hobby, I’ve been thinking about what I want to accomplish with my collection in the coming year. Having clear targets keeps me focused and helps me avoid those “what was I thinking?” purchases that pile up over time. Drawing from my own collecting journey, here’s my personal wish list and some lessons learned that might help you with your 2025 goals.

My Specific Coin Targets for 2025

I’m aiming for a mix of special pieces that excite me, while keeping my budget in check. Here’s what’s at the top of my list:

• A 1957 Ceylon 5 rupees Buddhism commemorative in proof condition – I’d love one with strong Cameo contrast because that striking design has always caught my eye.
• An ancient silver coin tied to the John Quincy Adams family collection from the 1974 sale. As a distant relative, I’m drawn to the personal connection.
• A problem-free Mexican “Caballito” peso with great luster in MS62-63 grade – hoping to find one at the 2025 FUN show without emptying my wallet.
• A gold Spanish or Colonial cob (1- or 2-escudos) with shipwreck history – the story behind these always pulls me in.
• A US $3 gold piece in AU to MS grade to fill the hole left when I regretfully sold mine years back.
• US Type coins to complete gaps in my collection, focusing on attractive examples rather than rarity.
• A gold elephant pagoda from India to add some global flair to my collection – those designs are incredible!
• A portrait coin of Cleopatra VII in Fine or better with clean surfaces – ancient history I can hold in my hand.
• If funds allow, a coin from Oliver Cromwell or the English Commonwealth era – tricky to find but worth the hunt.
• Another 16th or 17th century German thaler when I spot a nice example – I can’t resist those big silver coins.

Managing and Refining My Collection

Besides new additions, I’m getting serious about organizing what I already own. Let’s be honest – I’ve been terrible about impulse buys, grabbing modern commemoratives and silver eagles that don’t really fit my main interests. This year, I’m planning to sell duplicates and pieces I’ve grown less fond of to fund new purchases. Proper cataloging is happening too – I’m recording values so my family won’t face a puzzle later. It’s not easy; I’ve tried limiting myself to a “Box of 100” before and learned that selling to make room for better pieces teaches you what truly matters in a collection.

Practical Advice for Collectors

From my own stumbles and wins, here’s what works for me: First, grading matters – for coins like the Caballito peso, MS62-63 often gives you great eye appeal without the gem price premium. Second, provenance adds something special – whether it’s a shipwreck cob or a pedigreed ancient, the backstory matters. I’ve noticed key dates in top condition (like that $3 gold piece) can heat up fast, so timing buys at shows or auctions helps. Budget smartly – I fund new purchases by selling other pieces first. And when building sets like Jefferson nickels, enjoy the hunt but know when to buy the tough ones (like the 1950-D) outright.

Personal Insights and Encouragement

Never forget this should be fun, not stressful. Some of my best moments come from rediscovering coins I bought decades ago and seeing how my tastes have changed. Trimming my collection has been surprisingly freeing – it creates space for coins that truly speak to me. Start with just a few meaningful goals rather than an overwhelming list. Our hobby’s really about the journey, the learning, and the friends we make along the way. Wishing you a wonderful 2025 filled with great finds and collecting joy!